The York Ghost Merchants: A Haunted Boutique on The Shambles
Discover handmade, one-of-a-kind York Ghosts in a charming historic shop on The Shambles, blending heritage with spooky whimsy.
Nestled in the historic street of The Shambles, York Ghost Merchants offers a unique shopping experience with handmade, one-of-a-kind ghost figurines crafted by skilled artisans. This quaint shop blends centuries-old heritage with a quirky, spooky charm, making it a must-visit for collectors and fans of the paranormal. Each ghost carries a maker’s mark, ensuring its originality, and the shop’s atmosphere is filled with hidden surprises and photo opportunities.
A brief summary to The York Ghost Merchants
- 6 Shambles, York, YO1 7LZ, GB
- +441904202609
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book an appointment in advance to avoid long queues, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Look carefully for hidden ghosts behind picture frames and in peep holes throughout the shop.
- Use the photo booth to capture a memorable picture of your ghost before purchase.
- Check for limited edition Black Box ghosts on the website for exclusive collectibles.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The York Ghost Merchants location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The York Ghost Merchants
A Storied Location in York’s Most Famous Street
The York Ghost Merchants is located at 6 Shambles, a street renowned for its medieval charm and historic architecture. The building itself dates back to 1780, featuring oak-panelled walls and Georgian design elements that evoke a sense of timelessness. This setting perfectly complements the shop’s theme, blending the city’s rich ghost lore with a tangible heritage atmosphere. The Shambles, often cited as one of the most atmospheric streets in York, provides an evocative backdrop that enhances the mysterious allure of the Ghost Merchants.Handcrafted Ghosts with Unique Spirits
At the heart of the shop’s appeal are the York Ghosts themselves—each meticulously handmade in workshops adjacent to or above the shop. Crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations of Guild craftsmen and women, these ghosts are created from premium British materials. No two ghosts are alike; each carries its own distinct personality and an embossed maker’s mark, a rare feature that signifies the creator’s pride in their work. Limited edition Black Box Editions add to the collectability, presented in elegant black and gold boxes with detailed provenance.A Quirky and Immersive Shopping Experience
The interior of the shop is a treasure trove of ghostly oddities, with ghosts hidden in unexpected places such as behind picture frames and inside peep holes. Visitors are encouraged to explore and find their favorite ghost companion, making the visit interactive and fun. A small photo booth allows buyers to capture their ghost’s ‘departure’ from the shop, adding a playful ritual to the purchase. Despite its small size, the shop’s atmosphere is cozy and enchanting, with friendly staff who enhance the experience with their knowledge and warmth.Popularity and Social Media Fame
The York Ghost Merchants has gained viral fame, particularly on TikTok, where videos of the shop and its unique products have amassed over a billion views. This popularity often results in long queues, sometimes exceeding two hours, especially on weekends and holidays. To manage this, appointments can be booked in advance, allowing visitors to skip the line. The shop’s social media presence has helped transform it from a local curiosity into a global phenomenon, drawing ghost enthusiasts and collectors from around the world.Packaging and Presentation
The care taken in packaging reflects the shop’s dedication to craftsmanship. Smaller ghosts come in charming “Boo” boxes with gilt-edged viewing windows, while larger ghosts are wrapped in historic 1852 maps of York. This attention to detail enhances the giftability and keepsake value of each purchase, making the ghosts treasured souvenirs that embody both the spirit and history of York.A Unique Blend of Heritage and Whimsy
The York Ghost Merchants stands out as a singular destination where folklore, artistry, and commerce intertwine. It offers more than just souvenirs; it offers a connection to York’s haunted past through tangible, handcrafted art. Whether you’re a collector, a fan of the supernatural, or simply curious, the shop invites you to partake in a centuries-old tradition reimagined with contemporary charm and creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The York Ghost Merchants
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Explore a unique blend of York's ghostly history and charming souvenirs at The York Ghost Merchants, your destination for eerie collectibles.
Ghost Hunt of York
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Explore the haunted streets of York with the Ghost Hunt, where history and the supernatural collide in an unforgettable sightseeing experience.
St Crux
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Explore the echoes of medieval York at St Crux, where a grand church’s legacy lives on in a historic parish hall and poignant tales of martyrdom.
Parliament St
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York's vibrant shopping street where Victorian commerce meets medieval heritage and market tradition.
The Stonebow
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A historic gateway blending medieval charm and architectural evolution at York’s vibrant city heart.
Roman Column
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A 7.6-metre Roman column where Constantine may have been declared Emperor, standing in the shadow of York Minster since 1971.
Sundial Column
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An elegant 18th-century sundial column on stone lions, quietly marking time just east of York Minster in a peaceful corner of the cathedral precincts.
The Norman House
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Discover York’s oldest medieval house, a Norman stone residence with rare surviving walls and a Norman window hidden behind Stonegate.
The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York
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A soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of York, where 1,400 years of faith, history, and light-filled architecture converge in one of England’s greatest cathedrals.
Fairfax House
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Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Fairfax House, a premier Georgian mansion and museum in the heart of York.
The Original Ghost Walk of York
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Discover York's haunted past with The Original Ghost Walk, a captivating evening tour that unveils chilling tales and captivating history.
Ouse Bridge
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Historic Ouse Bridge in York spans the River Ouse, blending medieval heritage with 19th-century architecture and city life.
The York Dungeon
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Experience the chilling tales of York's past at The York Dungeon, where history, horror, and entertainment intersect for an unforgettable adventure.
St Anthonys Garden
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Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
York City Walls
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Discover the rich history and breathtaking views atop the ancient York City Walls, a must-see historical landmark in England.
Unmissable attractions to see
11 Shambles
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Step into medieval York at 11 Shambles, where timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets tell tales of centuries-old butcher shops and vibrant history.
The York Vikings
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Discover authentic Viking heritage and unique Norse collectibles in the heart of York’s historic Shambles street.
GR8escape York
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Discover York’s top escape room centre with immersive puzzles, unique themes, and friendly hosts in the city’s historic heart.
Shambles
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Step into York’s medieval heart on The Shambles, a narrow, timber-framed street rich with history, charm, and magical inspiration.
The Potions Academy
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Step into a magical classroom in York’s historic Shambles and craft your own enchanting potions in an immersive family-friendly adventure.
York's Chocolate Story
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Discover York’s rich chocolate heritage through immersive tours, hands-on workshops, and delicious tastings at York’s Chocolate Story.
Shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow
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A modest yet powerful shrine in York’s Shambles honoring Saint Margaret Clitherow, the courageous Catholic martyr known as the Pearl of York.
Shambles Market
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Discover York's vibrant Shambles Market, a historic covered marketplace blending artisan crafts, fresh food, and lively atmosphere daily from 9am to 5pm.
King's Sq
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King's Square, York – where ancient history meets lively culture in the city’s vibrant heart.
The Shop That Must Not Be Named
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Step into York’s enchanting Shambles and discover The Shop That Must Not Be Named, a magical Harry Potter emporium filled with wizarding wonders and immersive charm.
28 Shambles
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Discover the historical allure and vibrant atmosphere of 28 Shambles, York's iconic medieval street filled with charming shops and local delicacies.
Wizard Walk of York - WINNER Best Tour and Best of York Award!
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Experience the magic of York with the Wizard Walk, an award-winning tour that blends history, folklore, and captivating storytelling in a charming setting.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate
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Discover York’s tiniest street, Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma Gate, where mystery, medieval tales, and charming historic architecture converge in just a few meters.
Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign
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Discover York’s quirkiest tiny street marked by the Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate Sign, nestled near the medieval charm of the Shambles.
Roman Bath
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Discover York’s unique Roman Bath pub where ancient history meets vibrant local hospitality beneath your feet.
Essential places to dine
Valhalla York
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Experience hearty Viking-inspired tapas, unique ales, and a lively atmosphere at Valhalla York in the heart of the city.
Wine Stories
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Experience authentic Greek cuisine and an extensive wine selection in the cozy heart of York’s historic center at Wine Stories.
D'vine Restaurant And Social Bar
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A vibrant York venue blending British, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with a lively social bar atmosphere.
Wildwood
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Cozy Italian dining with stone-baked pizzas, fresh pasta, and vegan-friendly options in the heart of historic York’s Low Petergate.
The Cut & Craft York
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Stylish steakhouse in York’s historic St. Sampson’s Square, famed for premium cuts, craft beers, and inviting modern ambiance.
Bab Tooma York
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Experience authentic Syrian cuisine in a warm, traditional setting with generous portions and BYOB in the heart of York.
Marzano Italian & Grill
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of York’s vibrant Fossgate district.
Pavement Vaults
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Experience York’s vibrant grill and bar scene with generous smoked meats, craft beers, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere at Pavement Vaults.
La Vecchia Scuola
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and contemporary dining in the heart of historic York at La Vecchia Scuola.
Lucia Restaurant
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Experience vibrant Italian dining and cocktails in York’s heart, with a heated courtyard and stylish lounge for all-day enjoyment.
Las Iguanas - York
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Experience vibrant Latin American flavours and lively cocktails in York’s historic city centre at Las Iguanas.
Ate O'Clock
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Enchanting modern British dining in York’s fairy-lit alley, blending classic flavors with stylish charm and warm hospitality.
Cosy Club
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Historic charm meets stylish dining and cocktails in York’s iconic Cosy Club on Fossgate, perfect for all-day indulgence and special celebrations.
Los Moros
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Experience authentic North African cuisine with vibrant flavors and a rustic charm in the heart of historic York.
Turtle Bay York
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Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant island vibes in the heart of historic York at Turtle Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Take One Gifts
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Explore Take One Gifts in York for unique souvenirs, artisan crafts, and memorable collectibles reflecting the city's charm.
Barghest
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Discover Barghest, a quirky gift shop in York’s historic Shambles, offering unique film, TV, and music merchandise in a medieval setting.
Pride of York Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs in the heart of the historic Shambles at Pride of York Souvenirs.
Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts
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Discover quirky, unique gifts and playful treasures in the heart of York’s historic Shambles at Mrs B's Emporium of Gifts.
Sterling Souvenirs
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Discover authentic York treasures and unique souvenirs at Sterling Souvenirs, your friendly gift shop in the heart of King’s Square.
Gift Gallery
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Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs in the heart of York’s historic Shambles, where tradition meets thoughtful shopping.
The Medieval Scribe
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Discover unique medieval-inspired crafts and artisanal treasures in the heart of York’s historic Church Street.
Cello by Collectables
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Explore Cello by Collectables, a charming gift shop in York offering unique handcrafted treasures that embody the city's rich culture.
Pandora
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Discover elegant, hand-finished jewellery crafted with care and inspired by timeless style at Pandora on Low Petergate, York.
York Souvenirs and Gifts
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Authentic Yorkshire souvenirs and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic York’s medieval streets.
Paper Doll
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Discover unique, colourful fashion and artisan jewellery in York’s charming Paper Doll boutique, a hidden gem for stylish and distinctive finds.
Give The Dog A Bone
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Discover York’s quirky gift haven with two floors of unique treasures, from funky homeware to pop culture collectibles on historic Fossgate.
The Knutti Store, a Viking Trading Post
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The Cat Gallery
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York's iconic independent gift shop celebrating all things feline since 2001.
SOCTOPUS
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Discover York’s playful sock boutique blending British humour, culture, and quirky style in every colourful pair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pivní York
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Vudu Lounge
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Golden Fleece York
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York’s oldest haunted pub offering historic charm, classic ales, cozy rooms, and a lively social atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Victor J's
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The Blue Bell
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York’s smallest and most beloved Edwardian pub, famed for its authentic atmosphere, quality ales, and warm community spirit.
Oscar's Wine Bar & Bistro
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A lively and welcoming wine bar in York offering quality food, diverse wines, and a charming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Hop York
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A lively York city centre bar known for its craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, and vibrant live music in a historic Victorian setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Swinegate York
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A lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in York’s historic centre, perfect for social drinks, events, and weekend late nights.
Social 8 Lounge
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Stylish York lounge bar offering crafted cocktails, small plates, and boozy brunch in a relaxed, elegant setting with a courtyard garden.
The Fossgate Social
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A lively independent bar and coffee shop on York’s Fossgate, known for craft drinks, specialty coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bobos Cocktail Bar York
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York’s vibrant two-floor cocktail bar with tropical drinks, heated shisha terrace, lively DJs, and unbeatable drink deals in the historic Quarter.
The Three Tuns
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Step into The Three Tuns, a centuries-old timber-framed pub on Coppergate offering historic charm and hearty Yorkshire hospitality in York’s heart.
Dusk
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A quirky and welcoming bar in York’s city centre, perfect for lively nights and casual drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Evil Eye
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Quirky cocktails and lively entertainment blend seamlessly in York’s vibrant Evil Eye Lounge on historic Stonegate.
The Punch Bowl
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A historic York pub blending traditional charm, eclectic ales, and hearty British fare in a cozy, welcoming setting on Stonegate.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BlueBox
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York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Kuda
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York’s vibrant nightclub offering diverse music, live DJs, and a lively late-night atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Flares - York
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Experience York’s ultimate retro nightclub with decades-spanning hits, vibrant dance floors, and an inclusive party atmosphere.
Club Salvation
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York’s vibrant nightclub with dual music rooms, lively atmosphere, and fair-priced drinks for an unforgettable night out.
Popworld York
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York’s vibrant pop music nightclub with a unique revolving dancefloor and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
0.6 km
York’s iconic student nightclub offering energetic dance floors, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere since the 1980s.
Bar 55 York
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York’s exclusive strip club offering sophisticated adult entertainment and premium nightlife in a stylish, historic setting.
Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
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Experience lively private karaoke rooms in the heart of York’s vibrant nightlife at Chuandao Karaoke Bar.
Big Fellas Nightclub
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A lively and casual nightclub in Pontefract offering energetic late-night dancing and drinks in a central urban setting.
Arabian Night Lounge
34.1 km
Dive into Arabian enchantment on Leeds' nightlife scene: shisha, beats, and opulent vibes await at this Cherry Row gem.
Quadrophenia Night
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Rev up for mod anthems, live ska-soul bands, and 60s film vibes at Leeds' ultimate Quadrophenia tribute night—pure energy and rebellion on the dancefloor.
Disco Stu's
35.0 km
Pulse-pounding beats and sticky-floored euphoria on Vicar Lane—Disco Stu's delivers unfiltered Leeds nightlife with affordable drinks and all-night energy.
The Lab Nightclub Leeds
35.0 km
Experience Leeds' electric nightlife at The Lab Nightclub, where music flows smoothly and the party never stops in the heart of the city.
The Key Club
35.1 km
Intimate, no-frills live-music club in central Leeds where punk, indie and alternative acts play close and loud beneath Merrion Street.
PRYZM
35.2 km
Leeds' multi-themed superclub where futuristic beats meet quirky rooms in the heart of Arena Quarter nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
